Zak Smith

Sometimes great music seems to spring up unexpected. Consider, for example, this hard-scrapple self-titled set by New Jersey-bred Zak Smith. With a scratchy yet effusive voice that recalls Steve Forbert at his most pining, Smith and his adept ensemble – as well as a seemingly constant soulful choir – purvey an embrace that takes hold from first note to last. Opening track “Brand New Party” delivers all the title promises while “As the Bodies Pile Up,” “Traitor’s Way” and “Difficult Times” imbue an earnest emotion that often comes only after years of hard-fraught circumstance. Smith’s delivery is well paced throughout; “Crawling,” for example is anything bought, its propulsive rhythms tinged with a hint of exotic exuberance while the breathless enthusiasm of “Cynthia” seems barely contained. Rarely has an artist emerged so ready for prime time and so fully-formed, but based on this, his second outing (following closely of last year’s mini-LP Haunted Feet), Smith’s time has already arrived. (www.zaksmithband.com) - No Depression

I first heard Zak Smith last year, and was impressed by his EP. His eponymous debut came out in April, and it’s a very strong collection of rock tunes–well written, well played, and with solid vocals.

I imagine that live, he’s tons of fun.

You can stream the whole new record below. I recommend “So Good It’s Gone,” with a neat little bongo line that makes me think of Joe Cocker, and the mournful “As the Bodies Pile Up” as an example of his lyricism.

Good stuff. Check it out. - Berkeley Place Blog

Some, but not all, things get better with age. Cheese and wine do (to a point), milk and seafood - not so much. Musicians can go either way. Many reach a wall where they lose it (whatever “it” is) or, in some cases, they just lose their voices. Think of today’s Paul McCartney versus the Paul McCartney of the Beatles years; Frank Sinatra of the 1960’s versus the Frank Sinatra on Duets II; the early vocals of Roger Daltry versus the Roger Daltry of today - these are not pretty sights. At least with McCartney, Sinatra and Daltry you understand what they are singing, even if their voices are shot.

That is not always true of great musicians - especially lead singers.. For example, Van Morrison and Joe Cocker. I love Van Morrison’s music - Tupelo Honey, Domino, Moondance, Wild Night, Crazy Love, Into The Mystic, Blue Money - love it all. Grew up with it. Joe Cocker’s gritty renditions of When The Night Comes, Cry Me A River, With A Little Help From My Friends, Forever Young, The Letter are epic. Gravelly voiced and powerful. But, have you heard them lately? Gravel is all that’s left. I can’t even understand what they are singing and I know the words!

It is a great loss when such powerful and influential artists can no longer deliver. We don’t want to hear or see their decline. We want it to remain authentic and we want it at its best. When it isn’t, a musical void is created. Is there someone out there with the writing sensibilities and vocal chops of Van Morrison in his prime? Today, is there a vocalist with the power and expression of Joe Cocker at his best? Is there someone who can deliver that classic style on all cylinders but still has the chops to make the lyrics comprehensible?

I think I’ve found the guy and, now, you can too. His name is Zak Smith and he released a self-titled album on May 1, 2012, on which he is backed by the Zak Smith Band - Zak Smith, lead vocals and guitar; Gavi Grodsky, guitar; Milan Sudzuk, keyboards; Dave Smith, bass; Keith Robinson, drums; Jessica Labus and Star Busby, backing vocals; and Julijana Markovic, cello. Well, he is not completely backed by the Zak Smith Band. On two of the tracks of his self-titled album an entirely different band is used. The cuts Difficult Times and All The Bodies Pile Up feature backing vocals by Ivana Vukmirovic and Ksenija Kochetova; and the band Cynthia - Matt Fiorino on drums; Adam Vaccarelli on bass; John Carini on guitar; Bob Vaccarelli on percussion; and Billy Siegel on keyboards. Smith wrote every song that appears on the 13 track album.

It doesn’t really matter who backs Smith. His powerful, and subtly raspy, vocals compare well with those of Van Morrison and Joe Cocker in their prime. The instrumentation he uses is also similar to that frequently applied by them and he similarly uses a female call and response chorus.

Smith’s style is an amalgam of rock, blues, alternative, folk, Irish and gospel. Melodic hooks abound. Emotional lyrics are punctuated by Smith’s vibrant vocals. In sum, Smith perfectly fills the voids in the works of Van Morrison and Joe Cocker that have been left by age. It is as if Van Morrison and Joe Cocker were reborn as one. Zak Smith ably carries their banner forward into the 21st Century, and it is good - very, very good. Check it out for yourself.

- Old School
- The Ripple Effect

Zak Smith's song "As The Bodies Pile Up" is from his self-titled album which will be released on April 1st. It's a great rock 'n roll song that is carried by both the beat and Smith's nice, raspy vocals. Quite unique, Smith has the kind of voice and vocal style that is very pleasant to the ears and interesting enough to listen to repeatedly.

"As The Bodies Pile Up" is a hauntingly beautiful song that is accompanied by a few instruments that are oddly combined and yet produce a most beautiful sound together. Mesmerizing, tantalizing, and distinctive, the story of the song is weaved in a tale that is memorable and enticing. The arrangement is well done, the song well produced, and every part of this song is flawless. This is truly music with a message and meaning, and music lovers of every genre will enjoy a listen. Smith's CD is available for purchase now on his website and will be released to iTunes, Amazon, and Google Play on May 1st. There's no down that "As The Bodies Pile Up" to purchase this CD, that Zak Smith will have a bright future in the world of music. - Mi2N

It’s always gratifying to meet new bands via Twitter, and when Zak Smith advised me he was coming out with a new self-titled album, I was delighted to get myself a copy of it.

When you hear Zak’s voice for the first time, his tone is surprisingly soft, yet he has that raspy rock edge to it. Americana and blues influence his signature style of alternative rock. His lyrics are pensive and poetic, such as in “Brand New Party,” where he sings, “Always voices of the youth are raised/We want it all and not the crumbs you saved.”
His backup vocalists Jessica Labus and Starr Busby bring the sweet icing on the cake to balance out Zak’s rough voice, similar to that of Joe Cocker or Bob Dylan. With acoustic guitars, drums, piano, and even the violin, this band displays brilliance in entertaining with all musical mediums.

One of my favorite upbeat tracks is “Crawling,” which has a good beat and happy rhythm to it. And while Zak Smith creates songs that make you want to get up and dance, there are also tracks like “As the Bodies Pile Up” which has such a beautiful violin and piano melody that it’s easy to forget the darker lyrics it contains. “Raise The Moon” is a softer track that begins with the piano and has romantic lyrics such as “Please don’t go down the road, love me/And I will raise the moon if you love me.”

Since his debut EP Haunted Feet last January, Zak Smith and his band have grown tremendously in talent, in addition to mastering a thirteen-track album that has captivated New Yorkers and gained national interest.

Zak Smith’s official album release party will be held April 28th at Rockwood Music Hall in NYC. It’s a shame we can’t teleport. But for those of us missing the party, we can save the date of May 1st when the album goes up on iTunes and Amazon for all our downloading pleasure. Learn more about Zak Smith and his band here. - Music In Press

I thought I’d post again about Zak Smith as my recent blathering about Cynthia was mostly about my strange mental associations and not much about Mr. Smith or his music (except the part about his voice. That still holds true.)

As I truly am enjoying his self-titled album (for which there’s a release show on April 28th that you might consider if you happen to live near New York) it seems only right that I focus on the music and not lots of other people. So here’s my review and my favorite song on the album, at least so far.

Zak Smith is my favorite kind of musician: the kind who proves that appearances are deceiving. You see that determined expression and you think, “Here comes some cheesy metal or some sloppy grunge.” You’re a game sort so you press play anyway. Instead of painfully-self-indulgent anger or a doubly-painful Nirvana imitation you get a fully-developed suite of interesting, well-produced songs that are wholly-original rock and roll.

You now do a happy dance, because getting new, good music does that to you. Then you settle down and listen because Zak (you’re starting to feel like you can call him that, now) wrote actual, meaningful lyrics and you’re missing them. Those ladies kick in on back-up and you think, “Oh, yeah!” And that’s just the first song, which is pretty mellow.

Now, the official single pre-released is Brand New Party and if you click you can watch a video about Occupy Wall Street. It’s most definitely worth your time but it’s not quite the best the album offers.

Keep listening to the album and you’ll bump into Crawling. From start to finish this one keeps your toes tapping while you groove on the imagery. “You be the ark and I’ll be the flood,” he croons roughly and you picture it, a strange sort of love song for a relationship that could use a little lifting over the rocky parts.

That’s pretty apt for a lot of the album. You can let it wash over you, enjoying the melody and the catchy chorus, or you can dig into the lyrics and get a glimpse of Zak Smith himself. For the record, I still think he sounds like a cross between Jim Bianco—but without the sly wink around which most of Bianco’s music seems to be built—and Martin Sexton. Lyrically he’s more Jackson Browne. I like Jackson Browne. - The Not-Pop Jukebox

I’ll admit: it’s been a long time since I’ve listened to rock music. Sure, I’ve heard dozens of new artists employing the latest passing trends of the indie scene, cloaking their sound in unnecessary electronic production, quirky lyrics, and unapologetically hipster gimmicks. But a real rock band that doesn’t claim to infuse elements of bossa and/or Euro-house, or a musician that stands up to the challenge of stripping away all the extraneous elements and instead focus on songwriting and a simple musical setting — that’s hard to find.
All of this ranting is just my way of introducing you to a promising talent just weeks ahead of his album debut — Zak Smith.

From the first track “As The Bodies Pile Up”, his deep, almost-hoarse voice creates a wistful feeling, while Jessica Labus’ backing vocals gives a rich contrast and solid ground for the song to stand on. During the deeply moving and slow chorus, it feels like Smith is just pouring his heart out, regrets spilled over a flask of bourbon. Just before I began to start crying in despair, “Brand New Party” lifted the album on to a more upbeat note. Buoyed by a catchy drum beat, you’ll feel the urge to tap your feet and loudly sing along.

As a whole, the album feels most effective on the tracks when the call-and-response style of Smith and Labus’ lyrics is given the space to stretch out and fill up your imagination. “Doomed Youth” demonstrates this to a powerful effect on the chorus. The interplay between Smiths’ soulful croon and Labus’ higher, delicate echo gives the track a rhythmic flow and amplifies the emotion behind the lyrics.

An exquisitely crafted debut album, Zak Smith reminds us all just how much can still be done with guitars, drums, and a strong, confident vocalist. The album will be released on April 3rd on the band’s website. Mark the date, it’s well worth waiting for. - Sparks + Glowsticks

"On one hand you could argue that there are few original voices in popular music anymore. Everyone is influenced by one or more artists of the past, and with a mere 8 notes it is difficult to do something truly original. Yet it is the blending of styles and sounds that marks originality; not the similarities but the choices of division. In one of these finely honed musical crevices grew the art and creativity of Zak Smith..." - Wildy's World

"Some people were born with a voice that screams for... singing in a rock band - Zak Smith is one of them. Zak plays well crafted pop-rock that sweats warmth and passion - think of Bruce Springsteen's inner fire mixed with Tom Petty's superior talent for melody." - The Deli Magazine

This is very well written and executed. The first track doesn't really do it for me, but the rest of them are colourful, nostalgic, and have real soul. Zak Smith remainds me of an act I really love, the Hold Steady. It has the same approach to alternative music, the same motives, and sharp comments about love and lost. Haunted Feet tries to be anthemic and grand, and it succeeds, but it's also a lot of fun. It tells of heartbreaks, but in a lively and excited manner, rather than in desperation.

The Ones That Got Away Will Bury Me is my favourite track I guess, but I also like the last one, Faith But Waiting. It's not really fashionable, actually the opposite of it, but the bar-room rock atmospherics are very enjoyable; a simple formula but very effective. The female vocals are also strong and convincing on this track; lovely duet. - My Indie Music Blog

I can’t say this actually belongs on a progressive music site but it was sent to review so here goes. Zak Smith was born in New Jersey and formed his band in New York City. Other reviews compare Zak to Leonard Cohen and Elvis Costello, and I can see just a tiny bit of that but I hear a more rootsy blues based pop along the lines of Tom Petty, Joe Cocker and Bob Seger and even a touch of Bruce Springsteen.
Now I don’t listen to these bands but I have to qualify something, because if I did like these comparative artists, I’d be crazy about this CD! In fact, I’d go buy all his stuff. It is after all, good classic rock/pop music and not a bad track in that context. I certainly went through my radio friendly rock and pop phase before High School (40 yrs ago ) so I can listen to this.

Haunted Feet also has some alt pop songs that flow really smooth such as “Suffer Like A Ghost” and then a nice ballad “The Ones That Got Away Will Bury Me” ( this one almost has a Tom Petty sound and I actually like this quite a lot). I also didn’t mind “The House You Haunt”.

I wasn’t crazy about the last song “Faith But Waiting” as it was the most like Bob Seger.(I know the artist would rather I say Leonard Cohen on that one but I just can’t hear that so much). Truly a nice collection of classic sounding pop/rock songs that start to stick with you, and quickly win you over, even if you are more into progressive music. I happen to love lots of techno pop and just well done rock and alternative, so I have a good deal of tolerance for many types of music whether or not they are anywhere near the prog genre. So you have been warned that this is not in any way a progressive music EP but it is for the classic rock lovers without a doubt. Give it a listen and see what you think, because one thing I did hear clearly; Zak Smith sings from his heart and the music has a true emotion to it. That’s hard to find in music these days.

Reviewed by Lee Henderson on February 17th, 2011 - Prognaut.com

Zak Smith does New Jersey well with his Zak Smith Band that includes (besides Smith himself on guitars and vocals), Gavi Grodsky on guitar, Dave Smith on bass, Keith Robinson on drums, Milan Sudzuk & Kurt Thum on keyboards, and Jessica Labus on backing vocals.

All of the players are sympathetic to the music and what is best for the song, and nobody overplays. This is an important ingredient, because Smith has a definitive style and incredible talent and direction. If he surrounded himself with the wrong musicians, the songs wouldn't matter as much.

Now, about those songs. "Suffer Like A Ghost" is an enjoyable song in that it penetrates the listener's mind with imagery but also has an excellent mid-tempo groove musically and effective, but rather tasteful playing. The lyrics match the vocals which in turn match the music and lead to a winning song.

Another solid cut is "Under Your Possession" which has a Bluesy romp and accents Smith's vocals well. But the crown jewel would be the sterling "The Ones That Got Away Will Bury Me". With a title like that, you best deliver the goods, and Smith does indeed. This song is rich in drama and poignancy and has exquisite lyrics. The vocals have that throaty, well-worn style of greats like Warren Zevon or the more recent Jakob Dylan. The strings accent the beauty and the David Gilmour-ish guitar solo is note for note perfect in emotion. This song is an outstanding achievement and stands tall. If music is about connecting with the listener emotionally, consider this a serious connection. Zak Smith should be very proud.

By Peter Braidis - Indie-Music.com

“New Jersey-born alternative rock music singer/songwriter Zak Smith really hits it out of the ballpark with this perfectly crunchy’n’punchy five song EP CD. “Under Your Possession” starts things with a proverbial bang: A strutting guitar riff milks a tasty diggin’ groove for all its worth while Smith’s hoarse bluesy holler goes straight for the jugular. Smith’s strong knack for cool and soulful melodies and equally impressive talent for concise and thoughtful lyrics make for a potent double whammy. Better still, the playing is sharp and inspired throughout (the cutting guitars in particular are very sweet stuff), with a steady succession of snappy tempos and pumping beats keeping things lively, tuneful, and exciting from start to finish. A real bang-up little winner.” - Review by Joe Wawrzyniak - Jersey Beat

"Zak Smith has three full albums out prior to this EP release. As Rome Burned (2007), Deep Water (2008) and An Endless Doubt (2008) are all available but I have not had the pleasure to hear them yet. I must say after hearing this new EP that I am intrigued by what Smith has to offer.

With EP’s that I particularly like I get frustrated because they are too short and in this case that is exactly what happened. The only drawback for the entire listen was that it ended much too soon.

Zak Smith has a very emotional and sincere delivery while singing his songs. His voice is like the raspy whiskey laced blues you would hear on the chitlin circuit but it’s not the blues, it rocks with oodles of soul. I don’t mean soul music, just plain from the heart soul, the kind of lyrics and voice that touch you in some way because you just know it came from the gut of the person singing the song.

In just five tracks Zak Smith had me convinced that he has what it takes to make his mark on music history if he gets a chance. So many artists that are on this level never get recognized and its up to people like me and hundreds of others involved with putting out reviews on the Internet to help folks become familiar with artists that have what it takes to make an impression.

The musicianship was above average as well on these tracks, particularly the guitar, which was snappy and fresh. When it called for it some stinging licks they were well placed to bring more attention to the lyrics.

I really enjoyed Zak Smith, just give me some more!"

-- Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck - Founder - MuzikReviews.com

Zak Smith has had no problem making a name in the New Jersey music scene, and the singer-songwriter has continued to release music since 2007. The Montclair native has provided his live performance to audiences for years and has become a veteran to stages of the Northeast. Smith’s extensive experience in performing is demonstrated as he takes an acoustic approach for his newest release, Signs Of Life.

This album is incredibly crisp. Sounds come in clear; you can hear every strum, chime, and shaker. The acoustic guitar has the particular role of setting the easygoing ambiance for the record. Kept pleasantly melodic, the piano maintains a lighthearted feel. Smith’s raspy voice is contrasted by the delicate voices of the background singers. He has written lyrics that express empathy and heartfelt emotion; you can hear his honesty seeping into his singing.

Smith’s compassionate spirit is portrayed in “Have You Looked Outside.” The song serves as a reminder of worldly tragedies and inspires action. In “Minstrel Show,” the lyrics portray some of life’s hardships in true blues fashion, which reflects the number’s musical style. The strength of a relationship and how far one will go for love are described in “Raise The Moon.” Despite its simplicity, “Signs Of Life” manages to be one of the most touching tracks on the list, ending in a refrain saying, “You’re not alone.”

Simplicity has enriched every aspect of the record. The album is honest and transparent, opening room for connection between the musician and the listener. Taking musical inspiration from rock, alternative, Americana and blues, and combining it with a spirit of empathy, Smith is able to tug on heartstrings. - The Aquarian